Are you looking for a delicious and versatile vegetable to add some excitement to your meal routine? Look no further than cauliflower! This cruciferous superstar can be transformed into a wide variety of dishes, from comforting casseroles to international-inspired stir-fries. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 flavorful cauliflower dinner recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion chef seeking inspiration for your next big event, these recipes are sure to impress. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international flavors like tikka masala, we’ve got you covered. So grab some cauliflower and let’s get cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower
A flavorful and healthy side dish that’s sure to please! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the savory goodness of garlic and parmesan cheese, all roasted to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cauliflower florets with garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the cauliflower mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until cauliflower is tender and golden brown.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the cauliflower and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 22-28 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice with Shrimp
Elevate your fried rice game with this innovative recipe that replaces traditional rice with cauliflower, and adds succulent shrimp for an added protein boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the cauliflower “rice” to the skillet and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until it starts to brown.
5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Croutons
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This creamy cauliflower soup is elevated by the crunch of homemade croutons, adding texture and depth to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 baguette, cut into 1-inch cubes (for croutons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, sauté the cauliflower, onion, and butter until tender.
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toss baguette cubes with olive oil and season with salt. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Blend the soup until smooth. Serve hot with croutons on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos
Get ready to level up your taco game with this unique and delicious recipe that combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the crunch of roasted cauliflower.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded lettuce
– Diced tomatoes
– Crumbly feta cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, buffalo wing sauce, and honey until well coated.
3. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning roasted cauliflower onto a warmed tortilla, topping with lettuce, tomatoes, feta cheese (if using), and cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower and Chickpea Curry
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, creamy coconut milk, and nutritious cauliflower and chickpeas. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cauliflower and chickpeas. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cauliflower is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
A comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This casserole combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with the richness of cheese, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cauliflower and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked cauliflower in an even layer. Pour cheese sauce over the cauliflower.
5. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your vegetable game with this mouthwatering cauliflower steak recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into thick slabs (about 1 inch thick). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cauliflower steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, combine garlic, parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar. Stir to combine.
5. Serve the cauliflower steaks with chimichurri sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This recipe is a creative take on traditional macaroni and cheese, featuring cauliflower as the pasta substitute. With its mild flavor and tender texture, cauliflower adds a delightful twist to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work well)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: breadcrumbs and chopped parsley for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Steam cauliflower florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour; whisk smooth. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine steamed cauliflower and cheese sauce. Toss until coated.
7. Top with breadcrumbs and chopped parsley (if using). Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total, including prep and cooking time.
Cauliflower and Broccoli Gratin
A creamy, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This gratin is an easy way to get your daily dose of veggies without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, sauté cauliflower and broccoli in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and milk to make a smooth sauce. Add cheese and stir until melted.
4. Combine cooked veggies with the cheesy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Veggie Toppings
Transform your pizza game with this low-carb, gluten-free cauliflower crust and load up on the veggie goodness! This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup almond flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Toppings: cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove leaves and stem.
3. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a microwave-safe bowl, cook the cauliflower “rice” for 4-5 minutes, stirring every minute, until soft.
5. Allow the cauliflower to cool slightly.
6. In a bowl, combine cooked cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, almond flour, egg, and olive oil. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined baking sheet and shape into a circle or rectangle.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Top with your favorite veggies and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Cauliflower Rice
Elevate your meals with this bright and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe transforms cauliflower into a rice-like consistency, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Add the cauliflower “rice” and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
7. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cauliflower and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
A vegetarian twist on the classic comfort food, this recipe combines the earthy flavors of lentils and cauliflower with a crispy mashed potato topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 cup cooked lentils (cooked according to package instructions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cauliflower florets, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cauliflower is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in cooked lentils. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and grated cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and nutritious Cauliflower Alfredo Pasta recipe! This dish is a twist on the classic Italian favorite, substituting cauliflower for traditional cream.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine roasted cauliflower, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir over medium heat until creamy and smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the cauliflower mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on traditional stuffed shells! This recipe combines the flavors of roasted cauliflower, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in a tender pasta shell.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender, about 20 minutes.
3. Wilt spinach leaves in a pan with a little water until just cooked, then squeeze out excess moisture.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine roasted cauliflower, wilted spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Cook pasta shells according to package directions. Stuff each shell with the cauliflower-spinach mixture.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower and Black Bean Enchiladas
These flavorful enchiladas combine the creaminess of roasted cauliflower with the heartiness of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add black beans and cook until heated through.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
5. Assemble enchiladas by placing a spoonful of cauliflower mixture onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of black bean mixture. Roll up and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower and Sweet Potato Mash
Elevate your side dish game with this comforting and nutritious recipe that combines the best of both worlds: tender cauliflower and sweet potatoes, mashed to perfection. Perfect as a accompaniment to roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the cauliflower into florets and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, pierce the sweet potatoes several times with a fork and microwave for 3-4 minutes, or until soft.
4. Mash the roasted cauliflower, cooked sweet potatoes, butter, and heavy cream in a large bowl until smooth.
5. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and any desired additional flavorings.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cauliflower and Mushroom Risotto
This vegetarian risotto recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and cauliflower with a creamy Arborio rice dish. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
5. Add cauliflower florets; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring continuously, until absorbed and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cauliflower and Kale Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the earthy flavors of kale and cauliflower with a hint of garlic and ginger, creating a deliciously healthy and easy-to-make stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 cups of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cauliflower and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
4. Add the kale; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds and soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cauliflower and Quinoa Buddha Bowl
This vibrant bowl combines roasted cauliflower with nutty quinoa, tangy tahini sauce, and crunchy fresh veggies for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect as a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is also great for meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together tahini sauce and a splash of water (if needed).
6. Assemble the Buddha bowl by placing quinoa in the bottom, followed by roasted cauliflower, mixed greens, and sliced red bell pepper.
7. Drizzle with tahini sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower and Tofu Tikka Masala
Experience the flavors of India with this vegan twist on a classic dish. Marinated tofu and cauliflower are cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce, perfect for serving over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup plain vegan yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the cauliflower and tofu; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Cook cauliflower and tofu until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of cauliflower with these 20 flavorful dinner recipes! From classic comfort foods to international twists, there’s something for every occasion. Try Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower, Creamy Cauliflower Soup with Croutons, or Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Tacos. Go vegan with Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole or Cauliflower and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. Or, get adventurous with Cauliflower Steak with Chimichurri Sauce or Cauliflower Pizza Crust with Veggie Toppings. These easy-to-make recipes showcase the power of cauliflower as a nutritious and delicious base for countless meals.
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